Veterinary serviceLameness Diagnosis

We have state of the art equipment to diagnose and treat lameness in a horse on the yard.

All of our specialist equine veterinary surgeons are highly experienced and carry radiographic and scanning equipment. In addition we have three instant digital equine radiograph (x-ray) machines which can be used when several areas of the horse need to be imaged. This equipment saves the need to travel to a facility and the investigation can be performed where your horse is relaxed in its home environment. In addition, we have also been expertly trained to perform advanced treatments such as Shockwave, PRP and IRAP therapies.

Unknown lameness?

Lameness can present in a multitude of different ways. Direct trauma and injuries are obviously very common causes of lameness and may need a number of wound repair treatments. These can range from stitching and bandaging wounds to leaving them open with application of products such as Manuka honey. More subtle lameness can be more difficult to asses and detect, particularly when affecting the hind limbs. This may present as reluctance to work, under-performance, reduced quality of movement, a sore back, behavioral issues or a change in temperament. Picking up these conditions in the early stages is important as treatment can be initiated before the problem becomes severe.

If you think your horse maybe lame / have performance issues, please get in touch so that we can help.

Case Examples

As an example several horses are presented to us each year with a ‘bad back’. When investigated they are often showing mild hind limb lameness which has lead to the back becoming sore secondarily. The lameness can be caused by diseases affecting the bone and soft tissue, for example osteoarthritis (OA). Like people this is more common later in life but it does not exclusively affect the older horse. OA can be managed using a number of techniques such as Injections into the joint spaces. This is a relatively common procedure and involves the injection of corticosteroids and lubricating substances such as sodium hyaluronate. If successfully identified and treated the horses performance and welfare can be greatly improved.

For any lameness condition there is likely to be a number of different treatment options available. We understand the reality of horse ownership and will endeavor to work out the best option for your horse.

In addition to our mobile equipment our referred services include MRI, CT and Bone Scanning (scintigraphy). We are committed to providing excellent care to all horses and are used to providing a high quality professional service.

I have used the services of Shotter & Byers since I first started training racehorses in 2001. They offer a superb service, including out of hours and I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.

JIM BOYLE MRCVS, EPSOM FLAT TRAINER

We have all been in those high pressure crisis situations where a horse has injured itself or is ill. It is reassuring knowing I can call on the very experienced team at Shotter & Byers to take care of my precious horses. I have found them to always go above and beyond their call of duty. All the vets are very relatable and approachable, providing advice at a level that we as clients can understand.

Chris Burton, Australian Olympic Team Member and International Event Rider

Shotter & Byers have provided the veterinary care for our horses in training, breeding operation and young stock for over ten years. They have always provided my horses with excellent care and very much understand the demands of running a busy yard. We have a close working relationship with the vets and they are always on the end of the phone when we need them. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.

Phillip York. Trainer, One of the most successful Point-to-Point Jockeys

Meet ourTEAM

Alasdair Botting

BVSc MRCVS

Alasdair is an assistant vet on the team at Shotter and Byers, he graduated from Bristol University before completing a surgical and medical equine internship at Reid and Associates, a full service equine hospital and referral centre in South Florida. He was involved in all aspects of equine practice and learned from and worked closely with boarded surgeons and medicine specialists. The clinic was located close to the Winter Equestrian Festival, the Global Dressage Festival and the International Polo Club Palm Beach as well as being surrounded by a huge resident horse population. This time in America provided an opportunity to observe and practice first-class veterinary medicine and surgery. As a result he gained invaluable experience in surgery, medicine, anaestheisa and diagnostic imaging. Alasdair has a wide range of veterinary interests but particularly enjoys medicine, imaging and wound management.